“Preachers’ kids are worse than those who don’t go to church.” This is the premise that seems to be the driving force of Lifetime’s new reality treat, “Preachers’ Daughters”, which debuted March 12. As we dig into the season, you get the idea that the show is what TLC’s “The Sisterhood” was meant to be; we wanted "The Sisterhood" to be more controversial than it actually was. Outside of a few protests, those Atlanta ladies barely caused a ripple. That’s probably because there’s a difference between being the child of a pastor and the wife of the pastor. But there are other reasons why “Preachers’ Daughters” is reaping sturdier reviews.
“Daddy’s Little Angel”
You’ve got to admit that the theme song is infinitely cooler than the one from “The Sisterhood.” Thanks to a Los Angeles group called Mind the Gap (that specializes in TV and film music), we’re treated to a haunting, Chris Isaak-y styled theme song called “Daddy’s Little Angel.” The little things mean a lot. And if we like the opening credits, we’re more likely to keep watching.
Real Drama vs. “Reality” Drama
We’re also likely to watch a show that doesn’t contain a bunch of manufactured drama. To that end, ditching the “Housewives” format in favor of showcasing three families in separate locations was a smart choice for “Preachers’ Daughters.” No interaction amongst the girls means no bottle-throwing, hair-pulling, or “charity” event showdowns to distract us from what’s really going on.
Kids Have Better Scandals
“The Sisterhood” thought it was being shocking by adding a former prostitute/drug addict to the cast. Regrettably, they were wrong. As touching as Domonique’s hooker-turned-preacher’s wife story may have been, it simply doesn’t compare to 17-year-old Taylor Coleman’s state of affairs as a pastor’s kid. Still not allowed to date, she has taken matters into her own hands – as we quickly realize, based on her public make-out session with an “ex.” In fact, Taylor feels so restricted by her parents that she believes becoming a porn star provides the fast track to freedom. (Eat your heart out, Domonique.)
On the other hand…
In all fairness, it’s clear that the Colemans are ultimately trying to avoid a fate similar to that of 18-year-old Olivia Perry, whose acid-dropping, party-going ways awarded her an unplanned pregnancy. Adding fuel to the fire is the “Maury moment” we have when Perry drops the bomb that her daughter Eden actually has two possible dads.
Haven’t We Seen This Family Before?
Sexy brunette sisters with stylish clothes and a pushy matriarch… Hmm, they sure do sound like the stars of another reality show. But we’d actually be talking about the Koloffs – who could be considered the “Anti-Kardashians.” Mom and Dad are divorced preachers who have held tight reins over 16-year-old daughter Kolby and her three sisters. These wholesome, yet chic brunettes have the kind of chemistry that simply begs for a spin-off.
Another reason this show may appeal to more viewers is because its ultimate message is universal: the balance between offering discipline and freedom to children can be tough to strike. Pastors are expected to keep their kids from becoming wild and unruly – but at what cost, if they are restricting their freedom to explore the world? If “Preachers’ Daughters” can successfully answer that question, there just might be a season 2.
